Camino Real de Tierra Adentro colloquium opens in Durango

The fifth International Colloquium of the Camino Real de Tierra Adentro is currently taking place in Durango, Mexico, running from September 2 to September 4. Organized by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) and the Regional Institute of World Heritage in Zacatecas, the event focuses on the theme “Imaginaries, devotions, and knowledge.”

During the opening ceremonies at the Museo Francisco Villa, historians Miguel Vallebueno Garcinava and José de la Cruz Pacheco Rojas were honored for their contributions to studying this 3,000-kilometer historical route. Durango was selected as the host due to its role as a nodal point of the ancient Silver Route and its concentration of 19 recognized sites within the itinerary.

Experts at the colloquium raised concerns regarding a disconnect between academic research and local populations. Institutional estimates suggest that up to 90% of residents living along the route are unaware of its heritage value and legal protections. The event includes academic sessions on sustainable development, intangible heritage, and digital dissemination, alongside community participation from traditional cooks and local groups.